Takayama Matsuri Festival

Takayama Matsuri festival in Japan is considered as one of the three most colorful festivals of Japan. The two opulent festivals known as Spring Takayama Festival or Sanno Matsuri at Hie Shrine and Autumn Takayama Festival or Hachiman Matsuri at Sakurayama Hachiman Shrine take place every year at Takayama.
The Autumn Hachiman Matsuri takes place on 9th and 10th October symbolizing the onset of winter. The local people get ready for the arrival of the winter season. The festivals are a huge draw for tourists for both domestic as well as international tourists. The neighboring towns of Furukawa and Gero Onsen are ideal bases for indulging in the celebrations.
A shrine (Mikoshi) is taken around the town in a procession on the two days of the festival. The Mikoshi comprises of the shrine's kami (Shinto deity). The deity is taken across the town only on these festive occasions.

Background History
Season of Takayama Matsuri Festival in Japan: The festival takes place twice every year in April and October. The Spring Festival also known as Sanno festival takes place every year on April 14-15 at the Hie Shrine in the southern half of Takayama's old town. The Autumn Festival also called the Hachiman festival takes place on October 9-10 at the Hachiman Shrine in the northern half of the old town.